Reports of sexual offences in Cumbria schools revealed

[R]eports of sexual offences at Cumbria schools are revealed in figures obtained by global children’s charity Plan International UK.

Cumbria Police classed 100 alleged incidents as sexual offences in the county’s schools in the four years between 2011/12 and 2014/15.

In Cumbria, 13 reports of sexual offences on school premises were recorded in 2011/12, 12 in 2012/13, 10 in 2013/14 and 65 in 2014/15.

Reported incidents included sexual assault, abuse of a position of trust of a sexual nature, sexual grooming, rape and sexual activity with a child.

Plan International UK is calling for the government to commit to mandatory sex and relationships education which covers sexting, consent, healthy relationships and the law.

“This shows that we’re failing young people when it comes to learning about healthy relationships and consent,” says Plan International UK Head of Girls’ Rights Kerry Smith.

“Quality sex and relationships helps young people to develop healthy attitudes towards sex and relationships while helping to tackle inappropriate and aggressive sexual behaviour.”

Nationally, reports of sexual offences in schools have more than doubled in four years to 1,955 in 2014/15.

Figures were disclosed after a Freedom of Information request of UK police forces with 34 of 45 responses across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Police Scotland declined the request on cost grounds.

Alleged offences ranged from harassment to serious sexual assaults and rapes. Less than one in ten suspected cases resulted in criminal charges or summons.

Other national findings include:

Nearly two-thirds (65 per cent) of alleged victims are girls or women

94 per cent of alleged offences are committed by men or boys

15 per cent are thought to be committed by school staff, including teachers